Weeknight Bolognese

There are few things I like better on this planet than a good, warm, comforting bolognese sauce. The only problem is, usually you need either a terrific restaurant or all day in order to get some. One of my favorite, favorite bolognese recipes is the one I make in my slow cooker (see previous reference to the All Day issue.) It’s easy, it’s delicious, it’s delightful, it’s de-lovely, but it’s not something you can whip up when the whim strikes you.

And until I got my mitts on Ina Garten’s new cookbook, HOW EASY IS THAT, I would not have believed it was possible to ever be able to make a speedy bolognese sauce that didn’t taste like you threw it together in 10 minutes. However, they don’t call her Contessa for nothing, because her Weeknight Bolognese recipe? It’s the real deal. Rich, delicious, perfect bolognese sauce that tastes like you spend all day on it, when you really spent, oh, 30 minutes or so. It’s the perfect storm of deliciousness and not spending forever in the kitchen.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large (12-inch) skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground sirloin and cook, crumbling the meat with a wooden spoon, for 5 to 7 minutes, until the meat has lost its pink color and has started to brown. Stir in the garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes and cook for 1 more minute. Pour 1 cup of the wine into the skillet and stir to scrape up any browned bits. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, 1 tablespoon salt, and 1½ teaspoons pepper, stirring until combined. Bring to a boil, lower the heat, and simmer for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil, add a tablespoon of salt, a splash of oil, and the pasta, and cook according to the directions on the box.

While the pasta cooks, finish the sauce. Add the nutmeg, basil, cream, and the remaining ¼ cup wine to the sauce and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened. When the pasta is cooked, drain and pour into a large serving bowl. Add the sauce and ½ cup Parmesan and toss well. Serve hot with Parmesan on the side.

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Welcome!

Hi there! I’m Kate, and welcome to my world of cooking, taking pictures of what I’ve cooked, eating it up and then doing the whole thing all over again. My camera and I try to get in and out of the kitchen with delectable meals that are both quick and interesting, which is my favorite combination... If you want to know more….